First observations obtained with advanced characterization techniques

The OPENSTORM project presents its first advanced characterization results at PEPR Batteries Day

Sandrine LYONNARD (CEA-IRIG) and Lorenzo STIEVANO (ICGM)

The project OPENSTORM, focused on the operando analysis of energy storage materials in batteries, aims to understand the state of charge, state of health, and overall performance of batteries while addressing challenges related to observing and quantifying reactions, transport processes, degradation mechanisms, and various material properties. OPENSTORM employs advanced characterization techniques, such as operando microscopy and neutron diffraction, to study battery performance at different scales and under varying conditions. The project aims to develop methodologies for analysing electrochemical behaviour, degradation, and safety, ultimately contributing to the advancement of next-generation energy storage technologies.

During the PEPR Batteries Day, several case studies related to the real-time operando monitoring of battery behaviour and degradation mechanisms were presented. These included single-particle reaction and strain imaging using operando microLaue diffraction, neutron diffraction studies of solid-state batteries, X-ray tomography imaging of defects and heterogeneities in commercial cylindrical cells (Figure 1), and the development of AI-assisted tools for X-ray microscopy data analysis.

These advancements, crucial for understanding internal battery processes, will support the creation of a multidisciplinary collaborative platform that integrates various techniques. This platform is essential for tackling complex battery-related challenges and bridging the gap between lab-scale research and large-scale energy storage applications.